Man Charged with Federal Crimes in Beth Israel Synagogue Arson

Stephen Pittman faces new federal charges in addition to state arson charges for January fire at Jackson's only synagogue.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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New federal charges have been filed against Stephen Pittman, a Madison County, Mississippi man who admitted to setting fire to Beth Israel Congregation, the only synagogue in Jackson, on January 10th. Pittman is now facing federal charges of damage to religious property and use of fire to commit a felony, in addition to the state arson charges he already faces.

Why it matters

The arson attack on Beth Israel Congregation, the only synagogue in Mississippi's capital city, has raised concerns about antisemitism and religious intolerance in the region. The new federal charges underscore the seriousness of the crime and the potential for harsher penalties.

The details

According to authorities, Pittman was caught on security video inside the synagogue during the January 10th fire. He admitted to setting the building ablaze, and said he even caught himself on fire in the process. Pittman is now facing federal charges of damage to religious property and use of fire to commit a felony, in addition to the state arson charges he was previously charged with.

  • The fire at Beth Israel Congregation occurred on January 10, 2026.
  • Pittman has a court hearing scheduled for February 18, 2026.

The players

Stephen Pittman

A Madison County, Mississippi man who admitted to setting fire to Beth Israel Congregation, the only synagogue in Jackson.

Beth Israel Congregation

The only synagogue located in Jackson, Mississippi, which was the target of an arson attack in January 2026.

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What’s next

Pittman has a court hearing scheduled for February 18, 2026, where a judge will determine if he should be allowed out on bail.

The takeaway

The arson attack on the only synagogue in Mississippi's capital city has raised serious concerns about antisemitism and religious intolerance in the region. The new federal charges against the suspect underscore the gravity of the crime and the potential for harsher penalties, underscoring the need for vigilance and action against hate-motivated acts.